World Cup draw assigns Kansas City three group-stage matches and two knockout ties. Group J will feature Argentina and Messi; Groups E and F list top-ranked European teams. Kansas City will host matches June 16–27 and may serve as team base camp and hub.

Argentine veteran has sparked unease, leaving many wondering whether the duel that defined an era of international soccer could be interrupted on the sport’s biggest stage.

After guiding them to the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, Messi finally delivered the ultimate prize on December 6, 2025, contributing two assists as Javier Mascherano’s side defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 3–1 in the MLS Cup —clinching the club’s first-ever league title.

Lionel Messi's Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal learned their opponents for the 2026 World Cup after the draw was completed on Friday.

Saturday’s schedule release for the 2026 World Cup confirmed that AT&T Stadium in Arlington would host the defending champions for the group stage.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, historic rivals across glistening careers, will compete at their final World Cup —barring an almighty surprise come 2030. They both hold genuine ambitions of clinching the crown in North America.

Argentina y Lionel Messi enfrentarán a Argelia en el arranque de su campaña para mantenerse en el trono de la Copa

Argentina could play two group matches in North Texas in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and even have its base camp in D-FW.